Waterproof Flooring 101 – What Every Homeowner Should Know
Published January 30, 2026 | By Robbins® Flooring Experts
“Waterproof” is one of the most important (and most misunderstood) terms you’ll come across in the flooring industry. If you’re upgrading a kitchen, basement, or laundry room, it’s critical to know what waterproof flooring actually is. By the same token, you should also know what it isn’t before you make a purchase.
This guide breaks it all down and helps you find the right solution for bathrooms, laundry rooms, basements, kitchens, and beyond.
What Does Waterproof Flooring Actually Mean?
From an industry standpoint, waterproof flooring prevents water from penetrating the surface, core, and subfloor, providing 100% waterproof protection.
Generally, the floors feature multiple layers engineered to block moisture, resist swelling, and withstand everyday wear and tear.
Consider that water damage accounts for nearly 29% of all homeowners’ insurance claims, with the average claim totaling over $11,000. And 98% of basements experience some form of water damage over their lifetime (HouseCashin).
In other words, waterproof flooring is protection against one of the most common and expensive home issues.
“Think of water-resistant as a raincoat. Waterproof is a drysuit.” – Travis Bjorkman – Principal Scientist Wood, AHF™.
What Qualifies as Waterproof Flooring
So what makes a floor truly waterproof? It isn’t enough to resist the occasional spill. Waterproof flooring is engineered from the ground up to block moisture at every level.
From a flooring industry perspective, that means protection on the surface, through the core, and even underneath.
To qualify as actual waterproof flooring, a product typically includes:
- A sealed, non-absorbent wear layer that repels spills and resists stains
- A waterproof core, often made from stone-plastic composite (SPC) or similar materials, that prevents swelling and warping
- Tightly sealed edges or click lock systems that keep water from seeping between planks
- A pre-attached backing that resists vapor from below while adding comfort underfoot
“Waterproof flooring isn’t just about surface protection. It’s how the entire floor is constructed that makes the difference.” – Travis Bjorkman – Principal Scientist Wood, AHF™.
Where Waterproof Flooring Makes Sense
Some areas of the home demand waterproof flooring, not just for style but for long-term performance:
- Bathrooms and Kitchens: Frequent spills, steam, and water exposure
- Laundry Rooms: Potential leaks or overflow from appliances
- Basements: High humidity, vapor pressure, and possible flooding
- Entryways and Mudrooms: Wet shoes, snow, and puddles
In these spaces, waterproof vinyl, laminate flooring, or hybrid resilient options deliver both protection and peace of mind.
Popular Waterproof Flooring Options
Waterproof flooring now comes in a wide range of materials, styles, and price points. Here are some of the most reliable types you can purchase.
Luxury Vinyl Flooring
These are among the most popular choices. Waterproof vinyl flooring mimics hardwood or stone, is 100% waterproof, and withstands everyday wear and tear. Many brands offer a click-lock system and pre-attached underlayment, making installation easy.
Waterproof Laminate Flooring
Unlike traditional laminate flooring, modern waterproof laminate typically features sealed edges and a moisture-resistant core. The flooring is a strong choice for homeowners who want the look of wood with enhanced water protection.
Robbins®, for example, offers two waterproof laminate floors: Valley Terrain™ and Pacific Path™, delivering up to 72 hours of protection.
Hybrid Resilient Flooring
This option combines the best of vinyl and laminate. Hybrid resilient floors feature waterproof cores, scratch-resistant finishes, and high-dimensional stability. That makes them perfect for any moisture-prone area, such as laundry rooms, kitchens, and households with active lifestyles.
Engineered Hardwood
Some brands offer engineered hardwood with built-in waterproof protection. Robbins’ HydroGuard® waterproof engineered flooring, for example, utilizes a sealed hardwood surface with waterproof performance layers. It’s rated for over 36 hours of protection from the top down and the bottom up.
Engineered Stone Tile
This stone-look option features a composite structure that’s typically waterproof and crack-resistant. It’s a great alternative to natural stone in bathrooms and kitchens, eliminating the need for cumbersome resealing. Engineered stone tile also installs quickly, unlike natural stone.
What to Look for in Waterproof Flooring
For long-term protection, knowing what to look for with waterproof flooring can make all the difference. From construction and installation to surface performance and comfort, keep these key features in mind when comparing options:
- 100% waterproof rating
- Click lock installation for tight seams
- Pre-attached backing for moisture resistance and comfort
- Scratch-resistant surfaces to handle pets and traffic
- Visuals that match your design—from wide plank hardwood looks to sleek stone styles
Keep Your Floors Dry with Robbins®
Waterproof flooring offers peace of mind, especially in rooms where moisture is a constant threat. From waterproof vinyl plank to engineered tile and laminate, industry-wide options combine innovative engineering with great design.
Robbins offers an extensive range of moisture-resistant and waterproof flooring solutions. You can keep your floors dry with waterproof hardwoods, future-proof hybrid resilient flooring, or stone-look engineered tile. All are built to withstand moisture and everyday wear and tear.
Ready to stay dry in style? Find the Robbins retailer nearest you.
FAQs: Waterproof Flooring
Still have questions? Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about waterproof flooring.
What is the difference between water-resistant and waterproof flooring?
Water-resistant flooring can withstand minor spills and splashes but may be damaged by prolonged exposure to standing water or high humidity. Waterproof flooring offers 100% protection against moisture penetration, typically for a specified timeframe.
Can waterproof flooring go in laundry rooms and bathrooms?
Yes. Waterproof flooring is ideal for moisture-prone areas, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms, where spills, humidity, and leaks are commonplace.
What is the most durable waterproof flooring?
Luxury vinyl, hybrid resilient flooring, and densified hardwood with waterproof cores are among the most durable options—especially those featuring scratch-resistant coatings and click-lock installation.
Is waterproof laminate really waterproof?
Today’s waterproof laminate includes sealed edges and water-resistant cores that can handle moisture for up to 24–30 hours. Some brands, like Robbins®, offer protection for up to 72 hours. It’s a significant improvement over traditional laminate.